“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matt 7:13-14).

I am amazed at how our American Christian culture attempts to follow Christ and enjoy the wide, easy way at the same time. I am amazed at how I attempt to do this. It is important to understand, though, that by narrow and wide we don’t mean miserable and wonderful, respectively. Difficult does not always mean miserable and broad does not always mean wonderful. We can escape this illusion by knowing that inward joy and fullness of purpose is greater than whatever may be difficult or easy for our bodies and circumstances.

Following Christ in this world means carefully choosing to what is holy and right before the Lord. It means saying no to many, many, many things the world offers and puts before us. And in these choices we find security and peace and love. I am still making entirely too many soft choices, instead of choosing the very best for me and my family before God.